Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SJR1

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to dedicate the net revenue from the state lottery to the foundation school fund, including a portion dedicated to funding salary increases and bonuses for experienced public school classroom teachers and costs associated with school district teacher retirement contributions.

Impact

If enacted, SJR1 could have broad implications for the funding structure of public education in Texas. By linking lottery revenue specifically to teacher salaries and retirement contributions, the bill may promote retention of experienced educators and potentially improve the quality of education offered in public schools. Advocates argue that this dedicated funding stream addresses the critical need for competitive teacher compensation, which is essential in attracting and retaining quality educators in the state.

Summary

SJR1, also known as the Texas Lottery Revenue Dedication Amendment, proposes a significant constitutional change concerning the allocation of net revenue generated from the state lottery. Specifically, the bill seeks to allocate these funds to the foundation school fund, with a particular focus on enhancing the financial incentives available for experienced public school teachers. The resolution aims to improve educational outcomes by providing salary increases and bonuses to teachers who have served at least six years in the classroom, as well as covering costs associated with school district contributions to teacher retirement plans.

Contention

Opposition to SJR1 may arise from concerns regarding the reliance on lottery revenue as a stable funding source for public education. Critics might argue that funding education based on lottery proceeds could introduce volatility into the budget, as lottery revenues can fluctuate significantly based on economic conditions and public interest in lottery games. Furthermore, there may be debates around whether it is prudent policy to fund essential services like education through gambling income, raising ethical questions about the appropriateness of using such sources for critical public funding.

Notable_points

The proposed amendment requires voter approval, which means it will ultimately be decided in a referendum set to take place on November 7, 2017. This aspect emphasizes the democratic process in evaluating changes to the state constitution regarding financial allocations for education, giving Texas voters a direct say in how lottery funds are utilized.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR92

Proposing a constitutional amendment to dedicate net state lottery revenue to support educational programs that benefit classroom teaching in public schools and to prohibit advertisements and promotions that state or imply lottery ticket sales revenue will financially assist public schools.

TX HJR69

Proposing a constitutional amendment to set the salaries of members of the legislature and the lieutenant governor based on the average public school teacher salary in this state.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX HB11

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX SJR69

Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating to the national research university fund a portion of certain income from the lease for oil and gas exploration of land dedicated to the permanent university fund.

TX SB1474

TX HB4188

Relating to the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, including financial and other assistance provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators and to certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.